Lead Security Engineer - Information Systems Security Manager (ISSM)

Stratolaunch accelerates the development of next-generation aerospace and defense technologies through reusable hypersonic flight testing. Our autonomous, air-launched Talon-A vehicles provide access to operationally realistic flight environments at speeds exceeding Mach 5, delivering critical data that helps customers validate system performance and advance technologies toward deployment. Our team brings together expertise in engineering, manufacturing, and flight operations to solve complex challenges and advance capabilities essential to national security.

We are seeking a Lead Security Engineer – Information Systems Security Manager (ISSM) to lead the cybersecurity authorization, operation, and continuous monitoring of classified information systems supporting our hypersonic programs and advanced engineering capabilities.

This is a hands-on technical security role. The ISSM will serve as the primary cybersecurity authority for classified information systems and will work closely with Information Security, IT, Industrial Security, Engineering, Program Management, and government stakeholders to build secure classified computing environments that enable mission execution.

The ideal candidate combines practical IT and security engineering experience with a strong understanding of the Risk Management Framework and is comfortable owning a classified system throughout its full lifecycle, from architecture and authorization through operations, continuous monitoring, and eventual decommissioning.

This is a senior individual contributor position with significant technical ownership and the opportunity to help shape the company’s classified cybersecurity program as it grows.

Essential Responsibilities

• Serve as the designated Information Systems Security Manager (ISSM) for classified information systems under the company’s responsibility.

• Lead implementation of the Risk Management Framework (RMF) for classified information systems.

• Develop and maintain System Security Plans (SSPs), Plans of Action and Milestones (POA&Ms), security control implementation statements, network diagrams, hardware and software inventories, policies, procedures, and supporting authorization artifacts.

• Partner with IT and Engineering to design, build, secure, and operate classified computing environments.

• Support the implementation and accreditation requirements associated with SIPRNet connectivity.

• Establish secure configuration baselines based on applicable DISA STIGs and government guidance.

• Partner with Program Managers and engineering teams to understand classified computing requirements early in the program lifecycle.

• Develop scalable standards, procedures, templates, and technical baselines for classified information systems.

• Coordinate closely with the Facility Security Officer (FSO) and Industrial Security team on matters involving classified information, personnel access, physical security, and security incidents.

• Support the Insider Threat Program as it relates to classified information system activity and cybersecurity.

• Provide cybersecurity training and technical guidance to system administrators, engineers, ISSOs, and classified system users.

• Mentor or provide technical direction to future Information Systems Security Officers (ISSOs) as the classified environment expands.

Qualifications

Required

• 5+ years of cybersecurity experience supporting aerospace, defense, intelligence, national security, or similarly regulated environments.

• Previous experience serving formally as an ISSM or senior ISSO for classified information systems.

• Experience developing or maintaining RMF authorization documentation, including SSPs, POA&Ms, security controls, and supporting assessment artifacts.

• Ability to communicate effectively with engineers, system administrators, program managers, security professionals, government representatives, and executive stakeholders.

• U.S. citizenship.

• Active U.S. Secret security clearance or higher.

• Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret clearance and additional program accesses as required.

• Ability to work onsite due to the nature of the classified systems and responsibilities associated with the position.

• Relevant cybersecurity certification, such as Security+, CISSP, CISM, or equivalent.

• Experience with security compliance frameworks and standards such as DAAPM, NISPOM, JSIG, ICD 503, NIST 800-53, and NIST 800-171.

Preferred

• Experience establishing a new classified computing environment or taking a system from initial architecture through ATO.

• Experience supporting SIPRNet implementation, authorization, or operations.

• Active U.S. Top Secret security clearance.

Education & Experience

• BS or applicable experience in lieu of a degree.

• 5–8 years of relevant experience: $140,000–$185,000.

• 8+ years of relevant experience: $173,000–$220,000.

Work Environment

• This position is located in Mojave, CA.

• No travel is required.

• 9/80 schedule.

Base salary and leveling are established on a case-by-case basis. We consider several factors to ensure a competitive offer, including your location, educational background, and a comprehensive assessment of the skills and experience demonstrated during your interviews.

• Healthcare ( medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs )
• Paid Maternity and Parental Leave
• 50% company match per contributed dollar into 401(k) savings plan, up to $11,500
• Tuition reimbursement

This position may involve the operation of company vehicles as part of assigned duties.

Mojave Air & Spaceport is located just outside of Lancaster/Palmdale and is only 95 miles north of Los Angeles.  The area offers both affordability and central access to a variety of California's best attractions and landmarks.  

Not much for the outdoors and prefer the city life? You’re within a half day’s drive or less of Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, and San Francisco where you can find a variety of live entertainment, museums, tours, and historical sight-seeing. Theme parks are in abundance, with Six Flags Magic Mountain, Disneyland, and Knotts Berry Farm ready to meet the needs of rollercoaster thrill seekers. 

Food and drink fanatics are in a haven of delectable choices. Wine aficionados will also find easy access to some of the state’s best vino in Paso Robles, Santa Ynez, and even more locally in Tehachapi and Agua Dulce. Beer fanatics will find some of the best West Coast IPAs at Bravery and Lucky Luke’s in Lancaster. Any food option you crave is covered, and we always recommend the authentic and fresh Mexican food that you won’t find anywhere else in the United States.

Stratolaunch is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at our company. We encourage people from all walks of life to apply, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. Our management team does not tolerate discrimination or harassment at any point during our employees’ and applicants’ time with us, especially with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, and general treatment during employment.  For purposes of transparency, U.S. Citizenship may be required for some positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law   :